In a corporation park in Chennai’s Thousand Lights area, amidst the laughter and joy of children at play, a five-year-old girl, Sudaksha, faced a horrifying ordeal that could change her life forever. Attacked by two pet Rottweilers which were not put on leash, Sudaksha suffered severe injuries, including a partially-ripped scalp and deep wounds on her leg. The incident, which took place while Sudaksha was playing in the park on Sunday (May 5), has sparked a wave of concern and debate regarding pet safety and regulations surrounding dangerous dog breeds.
The attack on Sudaksha is not an isolated incident but rather a reflection of a broader issue concerning pet safety and responsible ownership. According to reports, the dogs involved in the attack were pets of a local resident, highlighting the importance of stringent regulations and guidelines for pet owners. The incident has raised questions about the adequacy of existing regulations and the need for stronger measures to ensure public safety.
Immediate Response and Ongoing Treatment
Following the attack, Sudaksha was rushed to Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, where she is currently undergoing treatment for her injuries. The severity of her injuries underscores the urgency of addressing safety concerns related to pet ownership, particularly when it comes to breeds known for their aggressive tendencies.
Government Action and Proposed Ban on Dangerous Dog Breeds
In response to the incident and growing concerns regarding public safety, the Animal Husbandry Ministry recommended a ban on various dog breeds considered to be dangerous. The list includes breeds such as Rottweilers, Pitbulls, American Bulldogs, and others known for their aggressive behaviour. The proposed ban aims to prevent similar incidents in the future and protect the public from potential harm.
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List of 23 Dog Breeds Banned in India
As per the recent recommendations, the following 23 dog breeds are banned in India due to their perceived danger to human life:
- Tosa Inu
- Fila Brasileiro
- American Bulldog
- Kangal
- Caucasian Shepherd
- Tornjak
- Sarplaninac
- Mastiffs
- Terriers
- Wolf Dogs
- Akbash
- Cane Corso
- Pitbull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Dogo Argentino
- Boesboel
- Central Asian Shepherd Dog
- South Russian Shepherd Dog
- Japanese Tosa
- Akita
- Rottweiler
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Canario
- Moscow Guard
- Bandog
High Court Recommendations on Owning Breeds Like Rottweiler
The incident has also brought attention to the role of the judiciary in addressing issues related to pet safety and ownership. The Delhi High Court, in response to concerns raised about certain dog breeds, recommended a ban on their rearing as pets in the country. The decision was based on the findings of a committee comprising animal welfare groups and experts, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to pet safety and regulations.
Impact on Pet Owners and the Need for Responsible Ownership
While the proposed ban aims to enhance public safety, it also raises questions about the rights of pet owners and the responsibilities that come with owning a pet. Responsible ownership, including proper training, socialisation, and adherence to guidelines, is essential to prevent incidents like the one involving Sudaksha.
Dog Attack Cases in Tamil Nadu and India
The incident in Chennai is not an isolated case, as dog attack cases have been reported across Tamil Nadu and India. In 2023, Tamil Nadu witnessed a significant number of dog bite cases, with Government Stanley Medical College Hospital and Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital treating thousands of individuals for dog bites.
While the figures pertain to only two large centres in the city, a recent article published in Tamil Nadu Journal of Public Health and Medical Research – “Rabies Elimination in Tamil Nadu – Where Do We Stand?” — has given a State-wide picture. There were a total of 8.83 lakh dog bites in Tamil Nadu in 2022 and 121 deaths caused by rabies from 2018 to 2022 — the article noted that the State is showing a declining trend in the deaths due to rabies but was nowhere closer to the goal of zero deaths due to rabies. The increase in dog bite cases highlights the need for stricter regulations and measures to address public safety concerns.
Looking Ahead: Ensuring Public Safety and Responsible Pet Ownership
As all prayers and hopes are pinned on Sudaksha recovering from her injuries, the focus has shifted to preventing similar incidents in the future. Stricter regulations, public awareness campaigns, and responsible pet ownership are key to ensuring the safety of children and other park visitors. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of implementing effective measures to protect public safety and prevent tragic incidents like the one that befell Sudaksha.
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